St Helens R.F.C.
Club information | |
---|---|
Full name |
St Helens Rugby Football Club |
Nickname(s) | Saints |
Website | Official site |
Founded | 1873 |
Current details | |
Ground(s) |
|
Chairman | Eamonn McManus |
Head Coach | Keiron Cunningham |
Captain(s) | Jon Wilkin |
Competition | Super League |
2015 season | 4th |
Current season |
St Helens Rugby Football Club, nicknamed Saints, is a professional rugby league club, formed in 1873 in St Helens in North West England, who play in the Super League. They were a founder member of the Northern Rugby Football Union and have been league champions on 13 occasions, and runners up 12 times,[1] and are the second joint most successful side in the Challenge Cup with 12 wins in 21 final appearances.[2]
Since 1961 the club's home colours have been white, with a red "V" on the jersey. Saints play their home games at the Totally Wicked Stadium in St Helens, having moved from their previous home, Knowsley Road, in 2012.
History
Early years (1873–1945)
St Helens are one of the oldest members of the Rugby Football League.[3] Founded as St Helens Football Club on 19 November 1873 at the Fleece Hotel by William Douglas Herman,[4] they played their first ever match on 31 January 1874 against Liverpool Royal Infirmary.[5] They became known as St Helens Rangers up until the 1880s. The club moved from the City Ground in 1890 where they had shared with St Helens Recs when neither were members of the Northern Rugby Football Union.[4] They defeated Manchester Rangers in the first match played at Knowsley Road.
In 1895 the club were one of 22 clubs that resigned from the Rugby Football Union and established the Northern Union.[3] The first match of the new code was an 8—3 win at home to Rochdale Hornets before 3,000 spectators, Bob Doherty scoring St Helens' first try.[6] They played in a vertically striped blue and white jersey—a stark contrast to the well known broad red band which would become the kit for the club later. The club reverted to this kit for one season during the rugby league centenary season in 1995.
The Challenge Cup was launched in 1897 and it was St Helens who contested its first final with Batley, at Headingley, Leeds. The "Gallant Youths" of Batley emerged victorious 10—3,[7][8] with Dave "Red" Traynor scoring the lone St Helens' try.[9]
St Helens 1897 Challenge Cup Final team | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Between 1897 and 1901, St Helens were not successful, even generally considered a mid—table side.[10][11][12] They finished second to bottom in the 1900—01 Lancashire League season, meaning they did not qualify to compete in the national league the year later.[13] In the 1901—02 season, however, they did finish third in the Lancashire league.[14] In 1902–03, the combined Lancashire and Yorkshire leagues saw St Helens enter for the first time. St Helens were placed in Division 1 but finished next to bottom and suffered relegation.[15] Promotion was gained at the 1st attempt,[16] only for another poor year to see them finish once again in a relegation position.[17] However the two Divisions became one League to save the club from a 2nd relegation.[18] The Champion fortunes that St Helens fans' greet today were certainly not apparent in this period, with the club finishing fourth to bottom in 1907,[19] third to bottom in 1908,[20] and consistently mid—table between 1909 and 1913.[21][22][23][24][25]
On 14 June 1913, St Helens Recs joined the Northern Union after defecting from rugby union and association football. The Recs were based individually at the City Road ground, after previously sharing with St Helens, before their move to Knowsley Road, when neither played rugby league. The Recs played their first game on 6 September 1913. St Helens now had two professional rugby league teams. In both sides first year in co—existence, St Helens finished yet again in a disappointing low mid—table finish.[26]
During the First World War, St Helens struggled to compete and failed to complete the full fixture list of the Emergency War League on two occasions,[27][28][29] with the club finishing mid—table in the first year of the war,[30] as well as being beaten by 37 points to 3 by Huddersfield in that year's Challenge Cup Final.[31]
The aftermath of the war was still taking its toll on national sport, not merely the club's ability to compete and complete fixtures, on 31 Jan 1918 'close down' due to a lack of finances following a 22-0 defeat by Widnes. Saints re-open on 25 December 1918 and are beaten 20 points to nil by St Helens Recs in a friendly fixture at City Road. In the shortened 1918—1919 season, St Helens played only nine times.[32] The clubs lack of success and disappointing league finishes continued for another seven seasons.[33][34][35][36][37][38][39]
The club defeated town rivals the Recs in the Lancashire Cup final by 10 points to 2 in the 1926–27 season.[40] The season after, they were trophyless, finishing 10th in a 28—team league.[41] One year after the Challenge Cup's début at Wembley, St Helens reached the final there where they were defeated by 10 points to 3 by Widnes in 1930.[7][42] They won their first ever National Championship in the 1931–32 season,[43] defeating Huddersfield 9—5 in the final.[44] This was the same season that they won their second Lancashire League,[45] the first coming in the 1929–30 season.[46] They lost the 1933 Lancashire Cup Final to Warrington,[47] whilst finishing in no competitive position in the league once more.[48] St Helens reached no finals or achieved any more honours during the remainder of the 1930s.[2] Also, what appeared to be building as something of an inter—town derby between the two St Helens clubs was struck down as St Helens Recs played their last game on 29 April 1939, as, due to the economic depression, it was not possible for the town to sustain two teams.[49]
Like during the First World War, the club could not enjoy having a full—time squad during the Second World War and struggled to compete. They did not compete in the National Championship until a 17 team Emergency War League was formed in the 1941—42 season,[50] and did not win any regional honours. They finished bottom of the EWL in seasons 1942—43[51] and 1943—44[52] and next-to-bottom in 1944—45.[53]
Post war (1945–1979)
The club's fortunes that had seen them be successful so rarely the decade previous did not change in the 1940s. After the commitments of the Second World War, St Helens still found it hard to compete, and the trend of finishing as a mid—table side was once more apparent.[54][55][56][57][58] The first two years of the 1950s, the last two years of Peter Lyons' reign, also ended trophyless.[59][60]
The arrival of Jim Sullivan as head coach in 1952[61] heralded a successful era for St Helens, and helped to establish the club as a respected force in British and eventually world rugby league. Under Sullivan, St Helens reached, and lost, the 1952—53 Challenge Cup final.[62] But they didn't have long to wait for trophies as St Helens won the Lancashire Leagues, in 1952—53,[63] The 1953 Championship final against Halifax was held at Manchester City’s Maine Road ground; in front of a crowd of over 50,000, Saints won their second Championship 24-14. They also won the 1953 Lancashire Cup, beating Wigan 16-8 at Swinton, the first time the two old rivals had clashed in a major final, Saints.
Sullivan took Saints to their first victory in the Challenge Cup final (against Halifax in 1956),[7][64] On Saturday 24 November 1956, St Helens inflicted a touring Australia its biggest ever defeat with a 44—2 win.[65]
The following year saw Saints win the 1956-7 Lancashire League 1956—57[66] and they won it again in 1958—59.[67] Sullivan's second championship came in 1958—59.[68] A second Lancashire Cup came in 1960—61,[69]
Ex—St Helens captain and prop-forward Alan Prescott took over from Jim Sullivan as head coach in 1959.[61] Perhaps the golden era of the club came in the 1960s, as well as more lately in the Super League era. With a galaxy of stars including Tom van Vollenhoven, Alex Murphy, Dick Huddart, Cliff Watson, Ray French and Vince Karalius, the 1960s was a decade of great success for the Saints. In Prescott's first season as coach he lifted the Lancashire League in the 1959—60 season.[70] During this decade, the recognisable 'red vee' strip first appeared in 1961 for the final against Wigan. St Helens won this epic 12—6,[7][71] and the kit has since become synonymous with the club. Mick Sullivan joined Saints for £11,000, then a record transfer fee. They won the Lancashire Cup in the 1961—62 season, with a 25—9 success over Swinton (at Central Park, Wigan) seeing yet more silverware come St Helens' way under the management of Prescott.[72] After his departure in 1962, Stan McCormick led the club to retaining the Lancashire Cup in his first year,[73] again beating Swinton; and St Helens made it a quadruplet of Lancashire Cup successes with wins against Leigh in 1964,[74] and once more Swinton in 1965, the latter success under coach Joe Coan.[75] St Helens won the Western Division Championship under McCormick's rule, beating Swinton 10—7.[76] St Helens, under coach Joe Coan, lost the 1964—65 Championship final to Halifax at Station Road, Swinton.[77] The 1965 New Zealand tourists appeared at Knowsley Road on Wednesday 15 September. Saints inflicted a 28—7 defeat on their visitors,[78] their biggest loss of the tour. A League[79] and Cup[7][80] double was achieved under Coan in the 1965—66 season, whilst they lost the Floodlit Trophy final against Castleford.[81] St Helens were beaten by Wakefield Trinity in the 1967 Rugby Football League Championship final at Station Road, Swinton on 10 May 1967 by 20 points to 9 in a replay,[82] after a 7—7 draw 4 days earlier.[83] This would be Coan's last year in charge at St Helens after a highly successful period as boss. He was replaced by Cliff Evans.
Evans' first full season in charge at the club saw him win the clubs eighth Lancashire Cup in 1968; winning 13-10 against Warrington after a replay.[84] St Helens retained the Lancashire Cup the year later,[85] whilst also winning the Lancashire League for being the highest placed Lancashire side in the National standings,[86] and they also reached the final of the Floodlit Trophy that season, where they were beaten 7—4 by Wigan.[87] The 1969—70 season would be the year that Evans would leave his post, but not without winning a National Championship, beating Leeds in the final after finishing third overall.[88]
The 1970s were also seen as a successful spell for St Helens, as they reached three Challenge Cup finals in the period. Jim Challinor took over from Cliff Evans in 1970, and in his first season, he won the Championship,[89][90] and reached two finals, the Lancashire Cup and Floodlit Trophy, losing both.[91][92] In this season, a European Championship—not dissimilar to today's World Club Challenge—was contested between St Helens and French champions St Gaudens. Over a two—legged game, St Helens won 92—11 on aggregate.[93][94] In their first Challenge Cup Final of the 1970s, they defeated Leeds in 1972 16—13,[7][95] in addition to winning their first Floodlit Trophy, after losing out in the final three times before, with an 8—2 win over Rochdale.[96] The club reached the Championship final in that season, but were beaten.[97] No success was achieved in seasons 1972—73 and 1973—74, with St Helens finishing third and second in the respective years.[98][99] This could be a possible reason for Jim Challinor's replacement with Eric Ashton as head coach.[61] In Ashton's first season in charge, St Helens won the Championship,[100] and contested the inaugural Premiership final, losing 26-11 to Leeds.[101] They repeated their first Challenge Cup success of the '70s three years after the first against Widnes in 1976 where they were victorious by 20—5 in the famous 'Dads Army' final.[7][102] They also won the Premiership against Salford,[103] and the Floodlit Trophy against Dewsbury in a successful season.[104] In the same year, St Helens lost to Eastern Suburbs in an unofficial World Club Challenge final by 25 points to 2.[105] The club won the Premiership in 1977,[106] but, on 13 December 1977, Saints lost 26—11 to Hull Kingston Rovers in the final of the BBC2 Floodlit Trophy.[107] In 1978 Leeds avenged their 1972 loss against St Helens, emerging winners by 14—12.[7][108] St Helens lost the Floodlit Trophy in the 1978—79 season, going down to Widnes.[109] The 1979—80 season was unsuccessful, with St Helens finishing mid—table.[110] Eric Ashton left the club after this disappointing year.[61]
The 1980s and early to mid-1990s
Club legend and Welsh international Kel Coslett took over as coach in June 1980.[61][111] However, his spell as coach was not nearly as successful as his spell as a player, and St Helens won nothing whilst under Coslett's command, finishing mid—table in both seasons.[112][113] He held the post for two years before handing over to Billy Benyon.[61][114] Not in—keeping with several of his predecessors, Benyon did not enjoy any success in his maiden season as St Helens coach; losing the Lancashire Cup final of that year to Warrington.[115] Nothing was won in the 1983—84 season,[116] but Saints won back the Lancashire Cup, with a 26—18 win at Wigan in the 1984—85 season.[117] They also won the Premiership in the same season with a 36—16 victory over defending champions Hull Kingston Rovers.[118] In Benyon's last season as coach, 1985—86, nothing was won.[119]
The arrival of Alex Murphy as coach in 1986[61][120] produced some colourful displays from a team that was widely regarded as an entertaining team to watch, but seemed to be constant runners—up. This was illustrated by the shock defeat to Halifax in the Challenge Cup final at Wembley 19—18 in 1987.[121] Success was achieved in 1988 when St Helens lifted their one and only John Player Trophy with a thrilling 15—14 victory over Leeds in January 1988, at Central Park, Wigan.[122] Neil Holding with the crucial, match—winning drop—goal. They, however, lost to Widnes in the Premiership Final at Old Trafford at the end of the season, further showing this teams ability to get to finals and not be able to compete on the best stage.[123] Nothing was achieved in the next two seasons,[124][125] including a defeat in the 1989 Challenge Cup Final[126] and Murphy stood down as coach.
Murphy was succeeded by Mike McClennan in February 1990.[61] In his first season, McClennan took St Helens to the 1991 Challenge Cup Final, where they were defeated by 13 points to 8 by Wigan.[127] They won the Lancashire Cup, in the 1991—92 season, beating Rochdale.[128] They also lost the Premiership Final that season, losing to Wigan.[129] In 1993 the club avenged their defeat to Wigan the season previous to win the Premiership,[130] in the same season that they won the Charity Shield,[131] and lost the Lancashire Cup final.[132] McClennan was head coach until December 1993, when Eric Hughes succeeded him as head coach in 1994.[61] Under Hughes, St Helens only reached the one, Regal Trophy Final, where they lost to Wigan in 1996 by 25 to 16.[133] They finished fourth in both of Hughes' seasons in charge.[134][135] The lack of trophies in the St Helens cabinet, after the club had suddenly become so accustomed to success, would need to change in the "new" brand Super League that formed in 1996; hence Hughes' departure in 1996 and replacement with Australian Shaun McRae.[61]
Summer era
Following on from their most constant ambition for successes, first experienced really in the 1960s, Saints became one of the most successful side of the summer era. Since the inception of Super League in 1996, they have won the title on six occasions, and have added seven Challenge Cups to their five previous successes. Indeed, they won the inaugural Super League, albeit by finishing top of the league before the play—off era. St Helens defeated Bradford 8—6 in the 1999 Super League Grand Final, their first Grand Final, with more than 50,000 people witnessing Chris Joynt lift the trophy at Old Trafford.[136] They also won the World Club Challenge in 2001 and 2007, beating Brisbane both times.[137][138]
Late 1990s
The success of the Saints in Super League began under the leadership of Shaun McRae in 1996. During his tenure the club won one league title (1996),[139] a year in which he was named Super League's coach of the year, and enjoyed back—to—back successes over Bradford in the Challenge Cup (1996[140] and 1997[141]). St Helens lost consecutive Premiership finals to Wigan in 1996,[142] and 1997.[143] 1998 proved to be a trophyless year,[144] and Ellery Hanley succeeded McRae in 1999, after the Australian left for new Super League side Gateshead.[61] Hanley led Saints to Grand Final success against Bradford in October of his first year in charge.[136] Hanley was considered by many to be a polarising figure and after several acrimonious disagreements with the St Helens board of directors, he was sacked a month into the following season.[145] Ian Millward was appointed as Hanley's successor as head coach.[61]
2000s
Millward's reign and a controversial sacking (2000–2005)
Under Millward, St Helens quickly became the most exciting team in the competition, playing expansive, attacking rugby. He saw them soundly beaten in the 2000 World Club Challenge, losing 44—6 to Melbourne,[146] but lead them to retaining their Super League title in 2000 beating Wigan 29—16.[147] They also won the Challenge Cup in 2001; 13—6 over Bradford,[148] with the final held at Twickenham Stadium for the first time,[149] and the 2001 World Club Challenge, earning a 20—18 win over the Broncos.[137][150] Millward then lead Saints to the top of Super League VII, and to reclaim the Super League title in the 2002 Grand Final,[151] Sean Long snatching a last minute 19—18 win over the Bradford with a drop—goal.[152] They lost the 2002 Challenge Cup Final to Wigan at Murrayfield Stadium by 21 points to 12.[153] They were hammered in the 2003 World Club Challenge by Sydney by 38 points to 0.[154] In this season, they failed to win a trophy after being knocked out of the Challenge Cup by Leeds at the semi—final stage, and the Super League play—offs by Wigan at the same stage. In 2004 they beat arch—rivals Wigan 32—16 at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff in front of a capacity crowd of 73,734 people to win the Challenge Cup,[155] Long gaining his second of an eventual three Lance Todd Trophies.[156]
Millward's reign was not without controversy and his St Helens career ended controversially after he was suspended in May 2005.[157] He was sacked for gross misconduct a week later.[158] Daniel Anderson was appointed as coach,[61] Millward was then made coach of archrivals Wigan.[159]
The Anderson era (2005–2008)
Daniel Anderson saw his new team become the first team to top the Super League and fail to reach Old Trafford in 2005.[160][161] However, St Helens won the 2006 Challenge Cup final on 26 August, beating Huddersfield 42—12.[162] This was their second Challenge Cup victory at Twickenham stadium, the first occasion being in 2001. St Helens scrum-half Sean Long was awarded the Lance Todd trophy for the man—of—the—match performance during the 2006 Challenge Cup Final and in doing so became the first ever player to win a third Lance Todd trophy. These added to the awards he won in 2001 and 2004.[156]
St Helens followed up their Challenge Cup win by claiming the League Leader's Shield,[163] before cementing their reputation as the team of the year by defeating Hull 26 points to 4 in the Super League Grand Final.[164] Once more St Helens confirmed their status as the outstanding team of the summer era. Additionally, Paul Wellens received the Man of Steel Award for the 2006 season.[165]
In December 2006 St Helens were awarded with the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Team Award at the Annual BBC Sports Personality of the Year Ceremony. This accolade recognises the best team in any sport within the United Kingdom. At the same ceremony Daniel Anderson was given the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Coach Award - this was the first time a rugby league coach had won the award.[166]
After a slow start to the 2007 season, Saints added to their history by beating Brisbane 18-14 to win the 2007 World Club Challenge.[138]
St Helens 2007 World Club Championship winning team | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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In July, they beat Super League rivals, Bradford,[167] to reach the first Challenge Cup final at the new Wembley Stadium.[168] Here, St Helens successfully defended their Challenge Cup by defeating Catalans Dragons 30-8 in the final on 25 August 2007.[169] They were beaten in the Grand Final that year by Leeds by 33 points to 6,[170] despite finishing at the top of the league ladder for the third successive season.[171] James Roby, however, became the second St Helens player, and home—grown talent in two years to win the Man of Steel Award.
Saints success in the Challenge Cup continued in 2008 with a victory at the new Wembley Stadium, this time defeating Hull 28-16.[172] Paul Wellens received the Lance Todd Trophy after sharing the award with team-mate Leon Pryce the year earlier.[156]
They also achieved first place again in the 2008 Super League season—for the 4th year running[173]—winning the League Leaders Shield, and beat Leeds 38—10 for the right to go to Old Trafford to contest the Grand Final.[174] However, St Helens were once again defeated by Leeds in the Grand Final, by a margin of 24 to 16, on 4 October 2008.[175] James Graham, on a positive note, made it a hat—trick of ex—Blackbrook Royals to win the Man of Steel Award whilst playing for St Helens. This would be Anderson's last game in charge of the club, as he announced he was to return to Australia and the Parramatta Eels of the NRL. St Helens fans and players alike were saddened to see Anderson leave, after not only upholding the tradition of St Helens exciting brand of rugby, but giving them a defensive and disciplined edge that was never apparent under Ian Millward. His personality and relationship with the fans was an additional reason why St Helens fans were disgruntled in him leaving after four years in charge and why next boss Mick Potter faced a fair amount of criticism in his initial period as boss.
The Potter years (2009–2010)
Mick Potter was announced as the successor to Anderson, which received many plaudits from the St Helens fans and the European game as a whole, as the year previous he had led Catalans Dragons to a record—high third—placed finish in the league. On 9 August 2009, St Helens reached a record 9th consecutive Challenge Cup semi—final,[176] where they were beaten by 24 points to 14 by Huddersfield.[177] This prevented Saints from reaching the final at the new Wembley Stadium for a third successive time and from winning the cup for a fourth time running. This defeat naturally came as a shock to the St Helens faithful, after so often in the last 15 years seeing the team reach the pinnacle of this competition and go on to win the cup. It was from here that the criticism began, and questions were raised particularly of his tactics and his activity (or lack of) in the transfer market.
On 3 October 2009, Saints defeated fierce rivals Wigan to book their place at a fourth consecutive Super League Grand Final,[178] only to lose out to Leeds in the final, 18-10, making Leeds the only team to win the Grand Final three times consecutively. A 20-year-old Kyle Eastmond scored all of Saints' points.[179] A trophyless year for the first time since 2003 was another catalyst to Potter's critics abusing and slating his appointment, with even rumours of rifts within the changing rooms.
2010s
2010 was the year that saw Potter surrender to his critics and leave St Helens. Criticisms from club legends like Paul Sculthorpe and Sean Long regarding his personal skills with the fans,[180] as well as the continued fan rejection saw him let his contract run out and, initially, seek a job in the NRL,[181][182][183] but eventually, and perhaps surprisingly, join Bradford on a two—year contract.[184] Names like Royce Simmons,[185] Mal Meninga,[186] and assistant coach Kieron Purtill,[187] were linked with the job for 2011. Simmons was the chosen man for the job, as announced on 22 July 2010.[188][189] The 2010 season would also see legendary hooker and captain Keiron Cunningham retire from the game after 17 years with his one and only club. However, Cunningham would not be leaving without leaving a lasting legacy on the club. A life—like bronze statue of Cunningham was built and placed on display in the town, before being transported to the clubs new stadium upon its construction in 2012.[190][191] He would additionally take up a coaching role with the academy, as well as a strength and conditioning role with the first team.[188] In light of these decisions, neither Cunningham nor Potter halted their personal and the St Helens team quest for success; shown by their 10th successive semi—final appearance in the Challenge Cup.[192] However, Saints failure to perform on the big stage was once more shown, going down in this semi—final by 32—28.[193] Defeating Huddersfield in the qualifying semi—final in the 2010 play-off series by 42—22 not only saw Saints qualify for their fifth Grand Final in five years, but also saw the final ever game to be played at Knowsley Road. Fittingly, Cunningham snatched the final ever try at the famous old ground in typical fashion from dummy—half.[194] However, for the fourth year running, St Helens once more proved flops in the Grand Final. One of the finest finals of the Super League era was anticipated,[195] but the flamboyant Saints that the fans saw so rarely under Potter once more failed to materialise, and, in front of a near sell—out crowd of 71,526, they fell to a 22—10 loss to rivals Wigan.[196] It was not the romantic finish to the Saints careers of Potter, Cunningham or any of the departing members of the squad that many had hoped for, but nevertheless, a new era was just around the corner, as Simmons' reign began.
A new era begins (2011–present)
Australian Royce Simmons took over from compatriot Mick Potter for the start of the 2011 season. As the club awaited completion of the new stadium, all home fixtures in 2011 were played at the Halton Stadium in Widnes, effectively meaning St Helens were forced to play an entire season of away fixtures. In addition, they suffered upheaval in terms of the playing squad; having already lost the influential Cunningham to retirement and other club legends like Sean Long, the start of the season was overshadowed by the news that Kyle Eastmond, who had been earmarked as Long's replacement, and inspirational leader James Graham were both looking to leave the club. A number of serious injuries to further key players such as Leon Pryce and Ade Gardner meant the team was facing an uphill battle on the field all season. However, despite all the problems faced, St Helens defied the odds to reach their 11th successive Challenge Cup semi-final in a row, and at the end of the season they qualified for their 6th consecutive Grand Final. However, for the 5th year in a row they were on the losing side, as the injury-plagued squad finally succumbed to Leeds. However, the 2011 season saw the emergence of a new crop of talent, with players such as Jonny Lomax and Lee Gaskell stepping up to fill the gaps left by senior players and earning rave reviews for their performances.
In 2012, the club moved into their new home at Langtree Park. However, the season started with a terrible run of results, which culminated in Royce Simmons being sacked in March. With assistant coach Kieron Purtill also leaving, the coaching reigns were taken up by youth coach Mike Rush for the remainder of the 2012 season, with Kieron Cunningham acting as his assistant. Following St Helens defeat to Wigan in the quarter-final of the Challenge Cup, which ended a run of 11 consecutive semi-final appearances, it was announced that Nathan Brown would be taking over as head coach for 2013, with Rush moving back into his previous role.
Academy
The St Helens academy has produced some of the finest youngsters, potential stars and internationals the world of rugby league has seen. Although initially, players were signed either from other clubs, or would go straight into first team reckoning after being signed from their amateur club at a much later age than today's system; as the game became more widespread in the town, across the North—West and nationally, a system had to be introduced in order to suffice the amount of youth talent that the club homed. More early examples of players that made the grade following on form their stints in the academy and reserves (previously known as the "St Helens Colts") include Steve Prescott,[197] Paul Forber,[198] Gary Connolly,[199] and Chris Arkwright.[200] St Helens traditional policy with youth was to make them better players for the club. Now, however, it can be argued that Saints look to make them internationals, with no less than five of the current St Helens squad's youth products having gone on to represent either Great Britain or England or both. St Helens youth policy does not operate solely in the borough boundaries of the town. Indeed, many of St Helens current and past squads call areas like Widnes, Wigan, Cumbria and Oldham home. St Helens have, also, branched even into rugby union territory and other wider national areas for youth players; most recently, Daniel Brotherton, a winger from Northampton, signed a professional contract with the club, and has made great strides in the under 18s after his signing from Northampton Demons.[201][202]
Rivalries
Wigan Warriors
There is a strong rivalry between St Helens and Wigan; the local derby between the two clubs has been traditionally regarded as the biggest in British rugby league, as well as one of the oldest in world rugby league.[203] Both being founder members of the Northern Rugby Football Union, the derby has been played since 1895, making it amongst the most historical derbys in both British and global rugby league. Remarkably, the first encounter between the fierce rivals ended in a 0—0 draw at Knowsley Road,[203] The games were traditionally played on Boxing Day, however were moved to Good Friday, during the busy Easter period in rugby league. More recently, the game was even played on Maundy Thursday in Super League. In all league encounters between the two since 1895, there have been 235 games, with Wigan having won nearly double the amount of games that St Helens have. Saints winning 83, drawing 11 and losing 141.[204] All competitive games, i.e. cup and league games combined, show that in the 366 games played, St Helens have won 141, there have been 19 draws and Wigan have won 206. They too have contested no fewer than 6 Challenge Cup Finals,[71][80][126][127][153][155] and have met in three Super League Grand Finals; St Helens winning 29-16 in 2000,[152] with Wigan initially gaining revenge in 2010, with a 22-10 win,[196] before Saints claimed the 2014 Super League Grand Final by a score of 14-6, taking a 2-1 lead in their Super League Grand Final head-to-heads. Wigan and St Helens have also met in 4 Premiership finals, Wigan winning 3, St Helens once,[129][130][142][143] 3 Lancashire Cup finals, St Helens winning two, Wigan one,[128][205][206] and one Floodlit Trophy final in 1968, Wigan winning 7—4.[207] The two have traditionally met each other in the Magic Weekend too. The two teams have a pretty even record, winning two (at Millennium Stadium in 2007 and 2008) and losing two (at Murrayfield in 2009 and Etihad Stadium in 2012), with one draw (at Millennium Stadium in 2011) in five ties.[208][209][210][211] St Helens greatest winning margin and the highest game score between the two in competitive football was a 75—0 win in a 2005 Challenge Cup Round 6 game.[212] Wigan's biggest win was a 65—12 win in Super League II, 1997.[213]
Super League record | ||||||||||
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Win | Draw | Loss | ||||||||
26 | 4 | 30 |
Bradford Bulls
Bradford and Saints have contested several finals in the modern game, following up from their vast successes respectively in previous decades. When known as Bradford Northern, Bradford experienced their period of success largely in the 1940s, at a time when St Helens struggled to compete due to the commitments of World War II. In fact, it was only in the 1950s that St Helens won their first Challenge Cup and National League, and at this time, when St Helens were establishing themselves and improving in the 1950s and 1960s, Bradford were disproving, and in fact folded in 1963. So the contest between the two can be doubted as a historical or traditional one. However, during the modern, Summer era, the game between the two has gained prestige. The two contested consecutive Challenge Cup finals in 1996 and 1997,[215][216] and later in 2001,[217] St Helens winning all three. In Super League Grand Finals, St Helens and Bradford have met twice, in 1999 and 2002, St Helens again winning all encounters.[218][219]
Super League record | ||||||||||
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Win | Draw | Loss | ||||||||
24 | 1 | 20 |
Leeds Rhinos
Leeds and St Helens is arguably the greatest rivalry of the two Yorkshire clubs that have history with St Helens. They have contested the last three Super League finals,[170][175][179] but the rugby they have produced in recent years is considered amongst the best in Super League. The derby is also sometimes considered a contest in terms of pride between the two counties. Leeds and St Helens have also a historical background, contesting the 1971—72 and 1977—78 Challenge Cup Finals, each team winning one each.[221][222] However, the derby is often noted for its bad behaviour—on and off the field. Especially recently, with incidents like the Ryan Bailey "chicken wing" tackle on Maurie Fa'asavalu in 2008, the presence of James Graham when the two meet, as well as the numerous fights that have broke out between the two sets of players, the game is certainly regarded as a feisty one, as well as one that produces good-to-watch rugby. Such activities off the field and between games like fights between supporters, has led to some fans being discouraged from attending the fixture at Knowsley Road; shown by somewhat disappointing crowd figures, such as an example of 11,048 in 2010.[223]
Super League record | ||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Win | Draw | Loss | ||||||||
24 | 0 | 23 |
Warrington Wolves
The other "big" North West club in Super League, Warrington, have also built up an anticipated derby contest with St Helens, particularly within Super League. As St Helens are unbeaten at Knowsley Road against the Wire since 1996, as well as boasting a generally impressive record against the Wolves in all meetings in Super League, the game is seen as an opportunity for Warrington to rectify their record against the Saints. In terms of cup and league final meetings; the two have met in two Lancashire Cup finals, St Helens winning once after a replay in 1967,[225] and one Premiership final, St Helens winning in 1977.[226] However, they remarkably have never met in Challenge Cup or Super League Finals. On 26 February 2011, Warrington Wolves beat St. Helens for the first time in 10 years ending the Saints Hoodoo over the club. The fixture was played at the Saints temporary home at Widnes. The Wolves also beat the Saints in the reverse fixture to do the league double for the first time in 17 years. In 2012 the Wolves beat St. Helens in the Grand Final elimination clash at Langtree Park to book the Warrington Wolves a place at the Grand Final.[227]
Super League record | ||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Win | Draw | Loss | ||||||||
35 | 2 | 9 |
Associates
Junior rugby in St Helens
There is a massive junior and youth contingent of rugby league players in St Helens. Clubs such as Thatto Heath and Blackbrook Royals have produced many of the former and current superstars in St Helens' squads over the years, and continue to do so.[229] Clubs in the St Helens area also include Bold Miners, Portico Vine, Pilkington Recs, Haydock Warriors, Newton Storm, Ecclestone Lions and Haresfinch Hawks which provide players for St Helens through the junior years and the scholarship schemes at the club, before eventually signing professionally at 16. But St Helens' youth roots do not stop in the St Helens area. Indeed, club legend Keiron Cunningham signed for the club from Wigan St Judes,[230] and Saints also look to clubs like Wigan St Patricks and Orrell St James in the Wigan area, and Halton Farnworth Hornets in the Widnes area for youth talent. However, a criticism of the St Helens scouting system is that they tend not to look at players beyond the junior ages (6–16 years old), and talented players who continue into amateur rugby tend to be signed very rarely.
- Blackbrook Royals have a large contingent of players in St Helens first team squad
- Keiron Cunningham, perhaps the prime example of St Helens deep roots in junior rugby
Feeder clubs
Without having strict feeder sides, such as the system that exists in Australasia, St Helens have, in the last 20 years, particularly with the inception of the dual—registration scheme in 2009, built up partnerships with Co-operative Championship sides like Widnes and Leigh.[231] St Helens have also been known to loan fringe players to "less strong" Super League sides such as Salford and Crusaders and previously Widnes. St Helens have also forged links with the Canada Rugby League (CRL) and their team Toronto City Saints, who have adopted the popular piece of St Helens insignia in their crest.[232] Outside of rugby league, St Helens have forged partnerships with British Basketball League side Mersey Tigers,[233] and English Premier Ice Hockey League team Manchester Phoenix.[234]
Supporters
St Helens are one of the best supported teams in Super League, averaging 11,543 according to 2014 figures.[235] Situated, prior to their recent move to Widnes, in Eccleston and Thatto Heath, a lot of support naturally derives from that area. Many strongholds of support also come from the Eastern side of the town; areas like Blackbrook, Haydock, and Parr. However, there exists considerable support towards Newton, Billinge and Ashton also. Their support is also not restricted to the town, with bases in Liverpool, Manchester, Birmingham, Northamptonshire, the South and North Wales.
The club also have their own supporters clubs, one for the club itself which has folded,[236] and one for fans in the South,.[237] International, as well as national support is also strong with Saints. A recent survey showed fan bases in Australia, the United States, France, Spain, Ireland, Scotland, Canada, the Middle East, Chile and Greece. The club also have something of a fan base forming in the Far East, with fans from Singapore and Japan.[238][239]
Super League crowd averages
Year | Average |
---|---|
1996 | 10,221[241] |
1997 | 8,826[242] |
1998 | 7,081[243] |
1999 | 8,201[244] |
2000 | 8,880[245] |
2001 | 8,801[246] |
2002 | 9,928[247] |
2003 | 9,819[248] |
2004 | 9,507[249] |
2005 | 10,622[250] |
2006 | 10,721[251] |
2007 | 9,717[252] |
2008 | 10,642[253] |
2009 | 10,985[254] |
2010 | 11,191[255] |
2011 | 7,863[256] |
2012 | 14,221[257] |
2013 | 11,279[258] |
2014 | 11,543[235] |
Notable fans
- Johnny Vegas—actor and comedian.[259]
- Ricky Hatton—retired welterweight champion boxer.[260]
- Craig Lyon—bantamweight boxer.[261]
- Tim Cahill—Australia and Everton F.C. footballer.[262]
- Dave Chisnall—professional darts player.[263]
- Rob Broughton—professional mixed martial artist of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.[264]
- Martin Murray—Commonwealth middleweight champion boxer.[265]
- David Bernstein—The Football Association Chairman.[266]
- Ricky Tomlinson—actor.[267]
- Ray Peacock - Comedian and actor
- Michael Smith - English darts player that plays in the Professional Darts Corporation
- Phil Lesh (musician) - Bass player with The Grateful Dead
- Gordon Burns- Retired television broadcaster
Social networking
The club is active on numerous social networking websites. Regular match updates are provided by the official St Helens RFC account on both Twitter and Facebook. A fans forum also exists on Facebook that allows users to comment and discuss important Rugby League topics. The forum is run by trusted volunteer administrators, such as a former kit man for the club Bill Bates.
Colours and badge
Colours
In their rugby football days and early years as a rugby league club, St Helens wore a vertically striped blue and white jersey with blue shorts and socks. In their initial period at Knowsley Road, St Helens wore a similar jersey, but the stripes were horizontal, and the colours blue and grey. These colours however were dropped in favour of a more traditional to today, red and white design. The jersey had a single broad red horizontal band, on a white background, and was used until 1961.
In the 1961 Challenge Cup final against Wigan, the strip still seen today—the famous red V—was first utilised.[71] In 1981, the club changed colours again, albeit temporarily, when Umbro designed and manufactured a French—style jersey of blue, with a white and red V. These colours were donned for two years, before the traditional colours were reverted to.
1985 saw the first jersey that was supported by a visible sponsor—St Helens Glass. Umbro were once again the designers of this varsity blue jersey with a royal blue vee—shaped chevron, a kit similar to the away kit of 2008. This was also the first jersey to feature the famous stickman of St Helens insignia. The 1985 New Zealand tour jersey was similar to the home shirt of 2009, sponsored also by Pilkington.
Between 1991 and 1994, a somewhat controversial and odd design of jersey was employed, where the chevron that St Helens had now adopted in place of the traditional V finished three—quarters of the way down the shirt. Umbro remained the clubs kit suppliers until 1994, when Stag took over. Their jerseys were far more lightweight than what they had replaced, and they chose to revert to a more conventional fashion of red V in their designs. The kit used first by the club was reverted to during their centenary year in 1995.
In 1997, yet another change of design that was controversial with the fans, a kit that featured a white drop—down V with a black and red mesh design at the bottom of the jersey. This was Mizuno's first design, taking over from Stag. The traditional red V was once more reverted to, after the controversial design, with a more circular design utilised for the 1999 season. In 2000, a more regular V was seen again. In 2003, a triple—V design was seen, and the first to be used by long—serving kit designers Puma AG. 2004 saw a double curvy red V used, before, in 2005, yet again tradition was reverted to in the design and this design was used until 2009. The away strip used in 2005 was the famous blue strip with a dark blue V. 2009 saw the long red V of 1985's design appear again, before, in 2010, a casual thin red V was seen.
In 2010, the club used the first kit they played a rugby league game design as a commemorative strip, to celebrate their 110th and final year at the ground.[268] 2011 saw the Puma contract expire, and Australian manufacturing giants ISC take over the making of the jerseys.[269] This strip saw a somewhat shorter red vee, compared to the ventures of the design in 2009 and '10.[270]
very early kit
|
kit until 1961
|
1961-present
|
Badge
The club's jerseys were initially adorned by the town's coat of arms. This was utilised until 1985. However, as Saints became a more national institution, they decided that a more recognisable badge needed to be adopted. The 1985 season therefore saw the famous stickman of St Helens first used. This was used as the main jersey emblem until 1991, when the St Helens sports club emblem, not dissimilar to the coat of arms used previously, was seen. This was used until 1996, when, with the implement of Super League into the British rugby league calendar, Saints chose to display a badge that featured an overlapping "S" and "H" in red, with the club's name around the border. This was used until 2010,[268] when the club decided to unofficially rebrand to "Saints RL", to coincide with them leaving Knowsley Road, and going "on the road" to Widnes for a season. The new crest was in the shape of a shield, and featured the over lapping "S" and "H" that the previous logo featured, but also displayed a red vee within the design, and "Saints RL" in upper case lettering at the top of the shield. This new crest drew criticism from large sections of the St Helens faithful, who were afraid of the club losing its connection to the town to attract a wider fan base.[271]
Kit manufacturers and sponsors
Years | Kit Manufacturer | Main Shirt Sponsor |
---|---|---|
1986-1987 | Umbro | St Helens Glass |
1987-1994 | McEwans Lager | |
1995-1996 | Stag | |
1997-1998 | Mizuno | |
1999 | John Smith's | |
2000 | Y2K | St Helens Glass |
2001 | Exito | |
2002 | Caledonia | |
2003 | Puma | Comodo |
2004-2005 | All Sports | |
2006-2007 | Earth money | |
2008-2009 | Pilkington Activ | |
2010 | Frontline | |
2011 | ISC | Medicash |
2012-2014 | Typhoo | |
2015- | O'Neills |
Current kit
The kit is supplied by O'Neills. On the front of the shirt, Typhoo is on the centre while RCI is on the top left while St Helens College appear on the far top right and the far top left. Totally Wicid is on the left sleeve while Myprotein is on the right sleeve. On the back of the shirt, Hatton solicitors appeared on the top back while A Star recruitment appear on the bottom back. AFEX appear on the right of their front shorts while Fleetsmart appear on the right of their back shorts.
Mascots
During the Super League era, the participating teams have adopted mascots and nicknames usually in alliteration with the name of their home town. Initially, the St Helens mascots were Bernard and Bernadette, St Bernard dogs; depicting something of a married couple with their on-field humorous antics. However, in 2009, the mascots changed to Boots and Bernard; happy and angry masculine characters. Bernard doesn't appear as often as Boots, with Boots being a more child-friendly image for the club, whilst Bernard retains the 'seriousness' of the mascots role to the club.[272]
Stadia
St Helens' former stadium was Knowsley Road, renamed in 2008 to the GPW Recruitment Stadium for sponsorship reasons.[1] Prior to this, in particular when St Helens were playing simply rugby football, they shared the City Ground with St Helens Recs. They left this stadium in 1890 for Knowsley Road and played there for 120 years. The ground at the time of its construction was considered modern, with one seated stand, and three standing areas that could, prior to strict safety regulations set in place, hold up to 40,000 people, shown by their record home crowd of 35,695 against Wigan in 1949.[2] In their first match at the new ground, St Helens beat Manchester Rangers, played under rugby football rules. After the great schism of 1895, and St Helens joining the NRFU, their first game at Knowsley Road under traditional rugby league rules was against Rochdale, in front of 3,000 spectators.[6] Over the years, however, age took its toll on the ground. Despite the big names like Meninga, van Vollenhoven, Lyon etc. coming to the club, it was constantly argued that, unlike other big clubs, St Helens did not have the stadium to suit their on—field talent. In 2006, the ground was treated to something of a makeover, after financial input from St Helens big money sponsors Earth Money. This aided the ground in gaining international rugby, with a fixture between Great Britain and New Zealand being held there in 2006. However, in 2008, St Helens were given a warning letter from the RFL, as a result of the ensuing licensing system that was to be introduced into Super League in 2009, stating that the quality of their current stadium was too poor for the expected quality of a licence in the league.[273] Thankfully for Saints, they were permitted by the council to begin construction on a new ground, and confirmed that they would move away from Knowsley Road in 2011.[274] It was announced that the new complex, to be built on an unused glass site in Peasley Cross, was to feature at least 12,000 seats, a large car park, and a Tesco store next to the ground. In addition to this, an iconic bridge, directly linking the ground to the town centre went under construction on 9 August 2010.[275] Whether the stadium would be ready for the beginning of the 2011 season was always uncertain, and grounds such as Leigh Sports Village were suggested to home Saints for the period between. However, the Halton Stadium, Widnes was the chosen venue for Saints for the 2011 season, and they will play all of their home games there before permanently relocating in 2012.[276] Saints currently play at Langtree Park.
2017 squad
2017 St Helens First Team | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
First team squad | Coaching staff | ||||||||
|
|
Head coach Assistant coaches
Updated: 23 November 2016 |
Future transfers
Ins
Nat | Name | Moved From | Contract Length | Date Announced |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ryan Morgan | Melbourne Storm | 3 Years | August 2016 | |
Luke Douglas | Gold Coast Titans | 3 Years | September 2016 | |
Matty Smith | Wigan Warriors | 3 Years | October 2016 | |
Adam Walker | Hull Kingston Rovers | 2 Years | October 2016 | |
Tommy Lee | Salford Red Devils | 2 Years | October 2016 |
Outs
Nat | Name | Moved To | Contract Length | Date Announced |
---|---|---|---|---|
Jordan Turner | Canberra Raiders | 2 Years | July 2016 | |
Matty Dawson | Leigh Centurions | 2 ½ Years | July 2016 | |
Travis Burns | Wynnum Manly Seagulls | 1 Year | August 2016 | |
Atelea Vea | Leigh Centurions | 1 Year | October 2016 | |
Lewis Charnock | Barrow Raiders | 1 Year | October 2016 | |
Lama Tasi | Salford Red Devils | 1 Year | October 2016 | |
Andre Savelio | Warrington Wolves | 1 Year | October 2016 | |
Luke Walsh | Catalans Dragons | 1 Year | October 2016 | |
Shannon McDonnell | Retirement | N/A | October 2016 | |
Olly Davies | Swinton Lions | 1 Year | November 2016 | |
Matthew Haggarty | Halifax RLFC | 1 Year | November 2016 | |
Levy Nzoungou | Melbourne Storm | 1 Year | November 2016 |
Players
Notable past players
For all St Helens players with a Wikipedia article see List of St Helens RLFC past players For all players who have gained international caps whilst playing for the club see List of St Helens RLFC international players
Best ever 17
Throughout 2010, a select panel of fans, journalists, former players and club officials voted for the best 17 players ever to have graced the Knowsley Road turf, to commemorate the clubs 120th and final year at the famous ground. On 2 September 2010, the following players were voted into the side:[277]
|
Players receiving testimonial matches
18 players have had benefit years or testimonials at St Helens, organised jointly by the club and the RFL. They honour ten years at the club, and the most recent player to receive one was fullback Paul Wellens for 2010.[278]
Other staff
Technical staff
Name | Job title |
---|---|
Keiron Cunningham | Head Coach |
Sean Long | Assistant Coach |
Jamahl Lolesi | Assistant Coach |
Matt Daniels | Head of Strength and Conditioning |
Ade Gardner | Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach |
Nathan Mill | Rehab & Monitoring Co-Ordinator |
Adam Rowland | Assistant Physio |
Derek Traynor | ASSE Manager & Under 19's Coach |
Ian Harris | Training Steward |
Alan Clarke and Stan Wall | First Team Kit Men |
Neil Kilshaw | Player Performance Manager |
Paul Wellens | Player Performance Coach |
Paul Johnson | Club Chaplain |
Derek Jones | Masseur |
Kel Coslett | Gameday Manager |
Simon Perritt | Club Doctor |
Steve Leonard | RL Development Manager |
Ian Talbot | Reserves Head Coach |
Tommy Martyn | Reserves Assistant Coach |
Boardroom staff
Name | Job title |
---|---|
Eamonn McManus | Chairman |
Mike Rush | Chief Executive Officer |
Paul Sculthorpe | Business Development Manager |
Steve Law | Merchandising Manager |
Mike Appleton | Media Manager |
Mark Onion | Marketing Manager |
Steve Davis | Head of Commercial Operations |
Honours
- World Club Challenge: 2
- 2001, 2007
- Rugby Football League Championship: 13
- 1931-32, 1952–53, 1958–59, 1965–66, 1969–70, 1970–71, 1974–75, 1996, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2006, 2014
- Challenge Cup: 12
- 1955-56, 1960–61, 1965–66, 1971–72, 1975–76, 1996, 1997, 2001, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008
- League Cup: 1
- 1987-88
- Premiership: 4
- 1975-76, 1976–77, 1984–85, 1992-93
- BBC2 Floodlit Trophy: 2
- 1971-72, 1975–76
- League Leader’s Shield: 6
- 2002, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2014
- Charity Shield: 1
- 1992-93
Regional
- Lancashire Cup: 11
- 1926-27, 1953–54, 1960–61, 1961–62, 1962–63, 1963–64, 1964–65, 1967–68, 1968–69, 1984–85, 1991–92
- Lancashire League: 9
- 1929-30, 1931–32, 1952–53, 1959–60, 1963–64, 1964–65, 1965–66, 1966–67, 1968–69
Records
Hall of Fame
Player records
Match records
- Most goals in a match: 16 by Paul Loughlin vs Carlisle, 14 September 1986.[281]
- Most points in a match: 40 by Paul Loughlin vs Carlisle, 14 September 1986.[281]
- Most tries in a match: 6 by all of the following:
- Alf Ellaby vs Barrow, 5 March 1932.[282]
- Steve Llewellyn vs Castleford, 3 March 1956.[283]
- Steve Llewellyn vs Liverpool City, 20 August 1956.[284]
- Tom van Vollenhoven vs Wakefield Trinity, 21 December 1957.[285]
- Tom van Vollenhoven vs Blackpool Borough, 23 April 1962.[286]
- Frank Myler vs Maryport, 1 September 1969.[287]
- Shane Cooper vs Hull, 17 February 1988.[288]
Season records
- Most tries in a season: 62 by Tom van Vollenhoven, 1958—59.[289]
- Most goals in a season: 214 by Kel Coslett, 1971—72.[290]
- Most points in a season: 452 by Kel Coslett, 1971—72.[290]
Career records
- Most career tries: 392 Tom van Vollenhoven 1957—68 (third highest by any player).[289]
- Most career points: 3,413 Kel Coslett 1961—76.[290]
- Most career goals: 1,639 Kel Coslett 1961—76.[290]
- Most career drop-goals: 73 Harry Pinner 1975—86.[291]
- Most career appearances: Kel Coslett 519 plus 12 as substitute 1961—76.[290]
Team records
Points margins
- Highest Score: 112-0 vs Carlisle, 14 September 1986.[281]
- Greatest Winning Margin: 112 vs Carlisle, 14 September 1986.[281]
- Heaviest Defeat: 78-6 vs Warrington, 12 April 1909.[292]
- Heaviest home defeat: 65-12 vs Wigan, 26 May 1997.
- Greatest Losing Margin: 72 vs Warrington, 12 April 1909.[292]
Attendances
- Highest Attendance: 35,695 vs Wigan, 26 December 1949.[293]
- Highest Super League Attendance: 18,098 vs Warrington, 26 August 1996.[294]
- Highest Challenge Cup Attendance: 30,276 vs Bradford Northern, 19 February 1949.[2][295]
Coaching register
Since the end of World War II, St Helens have seen 23 new bosses at the helm at Knowsley Road. Currently, the position is held by Kieron Cunningham.[61][188][189]
- Alfred Frodsham 1945-9
- Peter Lyons 1949–52
- Jim Sullivan 1952-9
- Alan Prescott 1959–62
- Stan McCormick 1962-4
- Joe Coen 1964-7
- Cliff Evans 1967–70
- Jim Challinor 1970-4
- Eric Ashton 1974–80
- Kel Coslett 1980-2
- Billy Benyon 1982-5
- Alex Murphy 1985–90
- Mike McClennan 1990-3
- Eric Hughes 1994-6
- Shaun McRae 1996-8
- Ellery Hanley 1998–2000
- Ian Millward 2000-5
- Daniel Anderson 2005-8
- Mick Potter 2009–10
- Royce Simmons 2011–12
- Mike Rush 2012
- Nathan Brown 2013–14
- Kieron Cunningham 2014-present
See also
- St Helens RLFC Academy
- List of St Helens RLFC coaches
- List of St Helens RLFC international players
- History of St Helens RLFC
- List of St Helens RLFC past players
- St Helens RLFC Hall of Fame
- List of St Helens RLFC seasons
- List of St Helens RLFC statistics and records
Bibliography
- Service, Alex (June 2000). St Helens Rugby League. NPI Media Group. ISBN 978-0-7524-1883-4.
- St Helens Heritage Society and Service, Alex (September 2006). St Helens RLFC:100 Great Players. NPI Media Group. ISBN 0-7524-4079-9.
- Quirke and McCarthy, Andrew and Stephen (August 2001). Knowsley Road: Memories of St. Helens Rugby League Football Club. London League Publications Ltd. ISBN 1-903659-04-3.
References
- 1 2 "St Helens RLFC Club Profile". superleague.co.uk. 15 July 2009. Retrieved 2009-07-14.
- 1 2 3 4 "St Helens RLFC club Records". Saints Heritage Society. 24 June 2009. Retrieved 2009-06-24.
- 1 2 "The Great Schism". RugbyFootballHistory.com. 20 August 1895. Retrieved 2009-12-24.
- 1 2 "St Helens RLFC Club History". saintsrlfc.com. 29 August 1873. Retrieved 2009-07-14.
- ↑ "St Helens First Match". Saints Heritage Society. 31 January 1874. Retrieved 2009-07-14.
- 1 2 "Saints' first match in Northern Union". Saints Heritage Society. 7 July 1895. Retrieved 2009-07-12.
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 "Challenge Cup Role of Honour". BBC. 26 August 2006. Retrieved 2009-07-11.
- ↑ "1897 Challenge Cup Final". BBC. 26 August 1897. Retrieved 2009-07-11.
- ↑ Hoole, Les (8 August 1998). The Rugby League Challenge Cup. Breedon Books Ltd. (ISBN 1-85983-094-3).
- ↑ "1897/1898 Lancashire League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1898. Retrieved 2010-08-01.
- ↑ "1898/1899 Lancashire League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1899. Retrieved 2010-08-01.
- ↑ "1899/1900 Lancashire League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1900. Retrieved 2010-08-01.
- ↑ "1900/1901 Lancashire League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1901. Retrieved 2010-08-01.
- ↑ "1901/1902 Lancashire League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1902. Retrieved 2010-08-01.
- ↑ "1902/1903 Division 1 League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1903. Retrieved 2009-07-12.
- ↑ "1903/1904 Division 2 League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1904. Retrieved 2009-07-12.
- ↑ "1904/1905 Division 1 League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1905. Retrieved 2009-07-12.
- ↑ "1905/1906 Northern Football Union League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1906. Retrieved 2009-07-12.
- ↑ "1906/1907 Northern Football Union League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1907. Retrieved 2010-08-01.
- ↑ "1907/1908 Northern Football Union League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1908. Retrieved 2010-08-01.
- ↑ "1908/1909 Northern Football Union League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1909. Retrieved 2010-08-01.
- ↑ "1909/1910 Northern Football Union League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1910. Retrieved 2010-08-01.
- ↑ "1910/1911 Northern Football Union League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1911. Retrieved 2010-08-01.
- ↑ "1911/1912 Northern Football Union League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1912. Retrieved 2010-08-01.
- ↑ "1912/1913 Northern Football Union League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1913. Retrieved 2010-08-01.
- ↑ "1913/1914 Emergency War League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1914. Retrieved 2010-08-02.
- ↑ "1915/1916 Emergency War League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1916. Retrieved 2009-07-20.
- ↑ "1916/1917 Emergency War League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1917. Retrieved 2009-07-20.
- ↑ "1917/1918 Emergency War League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1917. Retrieved 2009-07-20.
- ↑ "1914/1915 Emergency War League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1915. Retrieved 2010-08-02.
- ↑ "1915 Challenge Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 1 May 1915. Retrieved 2010-08-02.
- ↑ "1918/1919 Northern Football Union League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1919. Retrieved 2010-08-02.
- ↑ "1919/1920 Northern Football Union League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1920. Retrieved 2010-08-02.
- ↑ "1920/1921 Northern Football Union League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1921. Retrieved 2010-08-02.
- ↑ "1921/1922 Northern Football Union League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1922. Retrieved 2010-08-02.
- ↑ "1922/1923 Northern Football Union League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1923. Retrieved 2010-08-02.
- ↑ "1923/1924 Northern Football Union League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1924. Retrieved 2010-08-02.
- ↑ "1924/1925 Northern Football Union League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1925. Retrieved 2010-08-02.
- ↑ "1925/1926 Northern Football Union League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1926. Retrieved 2010-08-02.
- ↑ "1926/1927 Lancashire Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 20 November 1927. Retrieved 2009-07-17.
- ↑ "1928/1929 Lancashire Final". Saints Heritage Society. 20 November 1929. Retrieved 2010-08-03.
- ↑ "French Lessons". BBC. 24 April 2003. Retrieved 2003-04-24.
- ↑ "1931/1932 National League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1932. Retrieved 2009-07-17.
- ↑ "1931/1932 National League Final". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1931. Retrieved 2009-07-17.
- ↑ "1930/1931 Lancashire League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1931. Retrieved 2009-07-17.
- ↑ "1929/1930 Lancashire League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1930. Retrieved 2009-07-17.
- ↑ "1933 Lancashire Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 19 November 1933. Retrieved 2010-08-03.
- ↑ "1932/1933 National League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1933. Retrieved 2010-08-03.
- ↑ "History of Pilkington Recs RLFC". pilkingtonrecs.co.uk. 26 July 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-26.
- ↑ "19241/1942 Emergency War League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1942. Retrieved 2009-07-17.
- ↑ "1942/1943 Emergency War League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1943. Retrieved 2009-07-17.
- ↑ "1943/1944 Emergency War League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1944. Retrieved 2009-07-17.
- ↑ "1944/1945 Emergency War League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 24 April 1945. Retrieved 2009-07-17.
- ↑ "1945/46 National League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 1 July 1946. Retrieved 2010-08-03.
- ↑ "1946/47 National League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 1 July 1947. Retrieved 2010-08-03.
- ↑ "1947/48 National League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 1 July 1948. Retrieved 2010-08-03.
- ↑ "1948/49 National League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 1 July 1949. Retrieved 2010-08-03.
- ↑ "1949/50 National League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 1 July 1950. Retrieved 2010-08-03.
- ↑ "1950/51 National League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 1 July 1951. Retrieved 2010-08-03.
- ↑ "1951/52 National League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 1 July 1952. Retrieved 2010-08-03.
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 "Saints Coaching Register-see General Pages, then Coaches and Others". Saints Heritage Society. 1 July 2009. Retrieved 2009-07-01.
- ↑ "1953 Challenge Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 25 April 1953. Retrieved 2010-08-11.
- ↑ "1952–53 Lancashire League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 1 July 2009. Retrieved 2009-07-01.
- ↑ "1956 Challenge Cup Final Commentary". Saints Heritage Society. 11 July 1956. Retrieved 2009-07-11.
- ↑ "Jim Sullivan Timeline". rugbyrelics.com. 11 July 2009. Retrieved 2009-07-11.
- ↑ "1956–57 Lancashire League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 1 July 2009. Retrieved 2009-07-01.
- ↑ "1958–59 Lancashire League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 1 July 2009. Retrieved 2009-07-01.
- ↑ "1958–59 League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 1 July 2009. Retrieved 2009-07-01.
- ↑ "1961 Lancashire Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 1 July 2009. Retrieved 2009-07-01.
- ↑ "1959–60 Lancashire League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 1 July 2009. Retrieved 2009-07-01.
- 1 2 3 "1961 Challenge Cup Final". Saints Heritage sSociety. 1 July 1961. Retrieved 2009-07-01.
- ↑ "1962 Lancashire Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 11 November 1961. Retrieved 2010-08-06.
- ↑ "1963 Lancashire Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 27 October 1962. Retrieved 2010-08-06.
- ↑ "1964 Lancashire Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 26 October 1963. Retrieved 2010-08-06.
- ↑ "1965 Lancashire Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 26 October 1964. Retrieved 2010-08-06.
- ↑ "1964 Western Championship Final". Saints Heritage Society. 16 May 1964. Retrieved 2010-08-12.
- ↑ "1964/65 Championship Final". Saints Heritage Society. 22 May 1965. Retrieved 2010-08-11.
- ↑ "Saints vs. 1965 New Zealand Tour". Saints Heritage Society. 1 July 1961. Retrieved 2009-07-01.
- ↑ "1966 League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 11 July 2009. Retrieved 2010-08-06.
- 1 2 "1966 Challenge Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 1 July 1966. Retrieved 2009-07-01.
- ↑ "1966 Floodlit Trophy Final". Saints Heritage Society. 14 December 1965. Retrieved 2010-08-06.
- ↑ "1967 Championship Final Replay". Saints Heritage Society. 10 May 1967. Retrieved 2009-07-15.
- ↑ "1967 Championship Final". Saints Heritage Society. 6 May 1967. Retrieved 2009-07-15.
- ↑ "1968 Lancashire Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 2 December 1968. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1969 Lancashire Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 25 October 1968. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1968/69 League Tables". Saints Heritage Society. 25 October 1969. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1969 Floodlit Trophy Final". Saints Heritage Society. 17 December 1969. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1970 Championship Final". Saints Heritage Society. 16 May 1970. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1970/71 League Tables". Saints Heritage Society. 25 October 1971. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1971 Championship Final". Saints Heritage Society. 16 May 1971. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1971 Lancashire Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 28 November 1970. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1971 Floodlit Trophy Final". Saints Heritage Society. 13 December 1970. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1970/71 European Championship Final 1st Leg". Saints Heritage Society. 5 December 1970. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1970/71 European Championship Final 2nd Leg". Saints Heritage Society. 5 January 1971. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1972 Challenge Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 26 August 1972. Retrieved 2009-07-11.
- ↑ "1972 Floodlit Trophy Final". Saints Heritage Society. 14 December 1971. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1972 Championship Final". Saints Heritage Society. 20 May 1972. Retrieved 2010-08-11.
- ↑ "1972/73 League Tables". Saints Heritage Society. 25 October 1973. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1973/74 League Tables". Saints Heritage Society. 25 October 1974. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1974/75 League Tables". Saints Heritage Society. 25 October 1975. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1975 Premiership Final". Saints Heritage Society. 17 May 1975. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1976 Challenge Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 26 August 1976. Retrieved 2009-07-11.
- ↑ "1976 Premiership Final". Saints Heritage Society. 22 May 1976. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1976 Floodlit Trophy Final". Saints Heritage Society. 16 December 1975. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1976 World Club Challenge". Saints Heritage Society. 29 June 1976. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1977 Premiership Final". Saints Heritage Society. 28 May 1977. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1977 BBC2 Floodlit Trophy Final". Saints Heritage Society. 13 December 1977. Retrieved 2009-07-15.
- ↑ "1978 Challenge Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 26 August 1978. Retrieved 2009-07-11.
- ↑ "1979 Floodlit Trophy Final". Saints Heritage Society. 12 December 1978. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1979/80 League Tables". Saints Heritage Society. 25 October 1980. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "Kel Coslett Bio". Saints Heritage Society. 15 July 2009. Retrieved 2009-07-15.
- ↑ "1980/81 League Tables". Saints Heritage Society. 25 October 1981. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "1981/82 League Tables". Saints Heritage Society. 25 October 1982. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "Billy Benyon Bio". Saints Heritage Society. 15 July 2009. Retrieved 2009-07-15.
- ↑ "1983 Lancashire Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 23 December 1982. Retrieved 2010-08-08.
- ↑ "1983/84 League Tables". Saints Heritage Society. 25 October 1984. Retrieved 2010-08-08.
- ↑ "1985 Lancashire Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 28 October 1984. Retrieved 2010-08-08.
- ↑ "1985 Premiership Final". Saints Heritage Society. 11 May 1985. Retrieved 2009-07-15.
- ↑ "1985/86 League Tables". Saints Heritage Society. 25 October 1986. Retrieved 2010-08-08.
- ↑ "Alex Murphy Bio". Saints Heritage Society. 15 July 2009. Retrieved 2009-07-15.
- ↑ "1987 Challenge Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 2 May 1987. Retrieved 2009-07-15.
- ↑ "1988 John Player Trophy Final". Saints Heritage Society. 9 January 1988. Retrieved 2009-07-15.
- ↑ "1988 Premiership Final". Saints Heritage Society. 15 May 1988. Retrieved 2009-07-15.
- ↑ "1988/89 League Tables". Saints Heritage Society. 25 October 1990. Retrieved 2010-08-08.
- ↑ "1989/90 League Tables". Saints Heritage Society. 25 October 1990. Retrieved 2010-08-08.
- 1 2 "1989 Challenge Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 29 April 1989. Retrieved 2010-08-11.
- 1 2 "1991 Challenge Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 27 April 1991. Retrieved 2010-07-07.
- 1 2 "1992 Lancashire Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 15 May 1991. Retrieved 2009-07-15.
- 1 2 "1992 Premiership Final". Saints Heritage Society. 17 May 1992. Retrieved 2010-08-08.
- 1 2 "1990 Premiership Final". Saints Heritage Society. 15 May 1993. Retrieved 2009-07-15.
- ↑ "1993 Charity Shield". Saints Heritage Society. 23 August 1992. Retrieved 2010-08-08.
- ↑ "1993 Lancashire Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 18 October 1992. Retrieved 2010-08-08.
- ↑ "1996 Regal Trophy Final". Saints Heritage Society. 13 January 1996. Retrieved 2010-08-08.
- ↑ "1994/95 League Tables". Saints Heritage Society. 25 October 1995. Retrieved 2010-08-08.
- ↑ "1995/96 League Tables". Saints Heritage Society. 25 October 1996. Retrieved 2010-08-08.
- 1 2 "1999 Super League Grand Final". Saints Heritage Society. 9 October 1999. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- 1 2 "2001 World Club Challenge". Saints Heritage Society. 26 January 2001. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- 1 2 Harlow, Phil (23 February 2007). "St Helens vs. Brisbane As It Happened". BBC. Retrieved 2009-07-11.
- ↑ "1996 Super League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 9 October 1999. Retrieved 2009-07-15.
- ↑ "1996 Challenge Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 27 April 1996. Retrieved 2009-07-15.
- ↑ "1997 Challenge Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 3 May 1996. Retrieved 2009-07-15.
- 1 2 "1996 Premiership Final". Saints Heritage Society. 8 September 1996. Retrieved 2010-08-12.
- 1 2 "1997 Premiership Final". Saints Heritage Society. 28 September 1997. Retrieved 2010-08-12.
- ↑ "1998 Super League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 9 October 1998. Retrieved 2010-08-08.
- ↑ "Hanley Appointed Doncaster Coach". BBC. 14 December 2007. Retrieved 2007-12-14.
- ↑ "2000 World Club Challenge". Saints Heritage Society. 24 January 2000. Retrieved 2009-07-20.
- ↑ "Super League IV Grand Final". BBC. 14 October 2000. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- ↑ "2001 Challenge Cup Final Final". Saints Heritage Society. 28 April 2001. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- ↑ "RFL Remains Bullish On Twickenham". BBC. 8 March 2006. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- ↑ "World Club Challenge Chris Joynt". BBC. 22 February 2007. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- ↑ "Super League VII Table". Saints Heritage Society. 26 September 2002. Retrieved 2010-08-12.
- 1 2 "2002 Super League Grand Final". Saints Heritage Society. 19 October 2002. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- 1 2 "2002 Challenge Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 27 April 2002. Retrieved 2010-08-11.
- ↑ "2003 World Club Challenge". Saints Heritage Society. 14 February 2003. Retrieved 2009-07-20.
- 1 2 "2004 Challenge Cup Final Final". Saints Heritage Society. 15 May 2004. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- 1 2 3 "Lance Todd Trophy Winners". BBC. 26 August 2006. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- ↑ "Millward Suspended For Swearing". BBC. 6 May 2005. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- ↑ "Boss Millward Sacked By St Helens". BBC. 10 May 2005. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- ↑ "Millward Appointed Coach of Wigan". BBC. 22 May 2005. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- ↑ "2005 Super League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 9 October 2005. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- ↑ "2005 Super League Play-Offs Final Eliminator". Saints Heritage Society. 7 October 2005. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- ↑ "St Helens 42-12 Huddersfield". BBC. 26 August 2006. Retrieved 2009-07-11.
- ↑ "2006 Super League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 9 October 2006. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- ↑ "St Helens 26-4 Hull FC". BBC. 6 October 2006. Retrieved 2008-07-08.
- ↑ "Wellens Wins Man Of Steel Award". BBC. 9 August 2006. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- ↑ "Sports Personality Winners 2006". BBC. 10 December 2006. Retrieved 2009-07-11.
- ↑ "2007 Challenge Cup Semi-Final". Saints Heritage Society. 28 July 2007. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- ↑ "Challenge Cup Returns To Wembley". BBC. 28 March 2007. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- ↑ Hodgetts, Rob (25 August 2008). "St Helens vs. Catalans As It Happened FC". BBC. Retrieved 2009-07-11.
- 1 2 Hudson, Elizabeth (13 October 2007). "St Helens 6-33 Leeds Rhinos". BBC. Retrieved 2008-07-08.
- ↑ "2007 Super League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 9 October 2007. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- ↑ Soneji, Pranav (30 August 2008). "St Helens 28-16 Hull FC". BBC. Retrieved 2008-07-08.
- ↑ "2008 Super League Table". Saints Heritage Society. 9 October 2008. Retrieved 2009-07-16.
- ↑ "2008 Super League Play—Offs Qualifying Final". Saints Heritage Society. 4 October 2008. Retrieved 2008-07-08.
- 1 2 Lyon, Sam (4 October 2008). "St Helens 16-24 Leeds Rhinos". BBC. Retrieved 2008-07-08.
- ↑ "Cup Venues Announced". skysports.com. 2 June 2009. Retrieved 2009-08-10.
- ↑ "St Helens vs. Huddersfield CC match report". saintsrlfc.com. 9 August 2009. Retrieved 2009-08-10.
- ↑ "St Helens vs. Wigan P-O match report". engagesuperleague.co.uk. 3 October 2009. Retrieved 2009-10-03.
- 1 2 "St Helens 10-18 Leeds Rhinos". BBC. 10 October 2009. Retrieved 2009-10-21.
- ↑ "Long - Potter exit no shock". skysports.com. 12 May 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-12.
- ↑ "Change of scenery for Potter". superleague.co.uk. 4 May 2010. Retrieved 2010-06-15.
- ↑ "Gidley empathises with Potter". superleague.co.uk. 5 May 2010. Retrieved 2010-06-15.
- ↑ "Long not surprised by Potter exit". superleague.co.uk. 12 May 2010. Retrieved 2010-06-15.
- ↑ "Potter lands Bradford Bulls job". superleague.co.uk. 16 July 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-16.
- ↑ Wilson, Andy (28 June 2010). "Royce Simmons the surprising front-runner to take over at St Helens". London: guardian.co.uk. Retrieved 2010-07-12.
- ↑ "Meninga 'would consider' Saints". skysports.com. 1 June 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-12.
- ↑ "Purtill waits on Saints job". skysports.com. 30 June 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-12.
- 1 2 3 "Saints Appoint Royce Simmons". saintsrlfc.com. 22 July 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-22.
- 1 2 "Simmons to coach Saints". skysports.com. 22 July 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-22.
- ↑ "Cunningham is Man of Bronze". sthelensnews.com. 4 June 2008. Retrieved 2008-07-08.
- ↑ Lawrenson, David (8 February 2008). "Cunningham Finds Permanent Place With His Saints". London: The Guardian Newspaper. Retrieved 2008-07-08.
- ↑ "Potter: Semi Final Continues Saints Success". saintsrlfc.com. 15 June 2010. Retrieved 2010-06-15.
- ↑ "Saints' Final Hopes Dashed By Rhinos". saintsrlfc.com. 7 August 2010. Retrieved 2010-08-07.
- ↑ "St Helens 42-22 Huddersfield Giants". saintsrlfc.com. 24 September 2010. Retrieved 2010-10-05.
- ↑ "Too close to call". Sky Sports. 1 October 2010. Retrieved 2010-10-05.
- 1 2 "Warriors too good for Saints". Sky Sports. 2 October 2010. Retrieved 2010-10-05.
- ↑ "Steve Prescott profile". Saints Heritage Society. 3 November 2010. Retrieved 2010-11-03.
- ↑ "Paul Forber profile". Saints Heritage Society. 3 November 2010. Retrieved 2010-11-03.
- ↑ "Gary Connolly profile". Saints Heritage Society. 3 November 2010. Retrieved 2010-11-03.
- ↑ "Chris Arkwright profile". Saints Heritage Society. 3 November 2010. Retrieved 2010-11-03.
- ↑ "Dan Brotherton signs for Saints – RL that is!". northamptonrl.co.uk. 25 August 2010. Retrieved 2010-11-03.
- ↑ "Saints Sign Daniel Brotherton". saintsrlfc.com. 23 August 2010. Retrieved 2010-11-03.
- 1 2 "1st St Helens vs. Wigan game". Saints Heritage Society. 16 November 1895. Retrieved 2009-07-12.
- ↑ "Saints vs. Wigan Head-to-Head Since 1895". saintsrlfc.com. 29 August 1895. Retrieved 2009-08-02.
- ↑ "1953 Lancashire Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 24 October 1953. Retrieved 2010-07-31.
- ↑ "1984 Lancashire Cup Final". Saints Heritage Society. 28 October 1984. Retrieved 2010-07-31.
- ↑ "1968 Floodlit Trophy Final". Saints Heritage Society. 17 December 1968. Retrieved 2010-07-31.
- ↑ "2007 Magic Weekend". superleague.co.uk. 5 May 2007. Retrieved 20 February 2011.
- ↑ "2008 Magic Weekend". superleague.co.uk. 4 May 2008. Retrieved 20 February 2011.
- ↑ "2009 Magic Weekend". superleague.co.uk. 2 May 2009. Retrieved 20 February 2011.
- ↑ "2011 Magic Weekend". superleague.co.uk. 12 February 2011. Retrieved 20 February 2011.
- ↑ "St Helens 75-0 Wigan". Saints Heritage Society. 26 June 2005. Retrieved 2010-07-31.
- ↑ "St Helens 12-65 Wigan". Saints Heritage Society. 26 May 1997. Retrieved 2010-07-31.
- ↑ "Super League record vs Wigan". Saints Heritage Society. 20 February 2011. Retrieved 20 February 2011.
- ↑ "St Helens 40 v 32 Bradford Bulls". saints.org.uk. 27 April 1996. Retrieved 2010-06-24.
- ↑ "St Helens 32 v 22 Bradford Bulls". saints.org.uk. 3 May 1997. Retrieved 2010-06-24.
- ↑ "St Helens 13 v 6 Bradford Bulls". saints.org.uk. 28 April 2001. Retrieved 2010-06-24.
- ↑ "St Helens 8 v 6 Bradford Bulls". saints.org.uk. 9 October 1999. Retrieved 2010-06-24.
- ↑ "St Helens 19 v 18 Bradford Bulls". saints.org.uk. 19 October 2002. Retrieved 2010-06-24.
- ↑ "Super League record vs Bradford". Saints Heritage Society. 20 February 2011. Retrieved 20 February 2011.
- ↑ "St Helens 16-13 Leeds". saints.org.uk. 13 May 1972. Retrieved 2010-06-24.
- ↑ "St Helens 12-14 Leeds". saints.org.uk. 13 May 1978. Retrieved 2010-06-24.
- ↑ "St Helens 24-28 Leeds". saintsrlfc.com. 3 July 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-26.
- ↑ "Super League record vs Leeds". Saints Heritage Society. 20 February 2011. Retrieved 20 February 2011.
- ↑ "St Helens 13-10 Warrington". Saints Heritage Society. 2 February 1967. Retrieved 2010-07-31.
- ↑ "St Helens 32-20 Warrington". Saints Heritage Society. 28 May 1977. Retrieved 2010-07-31.
- ↑ http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-league/19718693
- ↑ "Super League record vs Warrington". Saints Heritage Society. 20 February 2011. Retrieved 20 February 2011.
- ↑ "St Helens 1st team squad". saintsrlfc.com. 11 December 2009. Retrieved 2009-12-11.
- ↑ "Keiron Cunningham profile". saintsrlfc.com. 27 July 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-27.
- ↑ "Emmitt: Dual System Is Giving Me Confidence". saintsrlfc.com. 12 May 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-31.
- ↑ "Toronto Becomes Second CRL Domestic Club". saintsrlfc.com. 3 September 2010. Retrieved 2010-10-06.
- ↑ "Saints Join Forces With Everton Tigers". saintsrlfc.com. 1 February 2010. Retrieved 2010-10-22.
- ↑ "Saints Team Up With Manchester Phoenix". saintsrlfc.com. 12 February 2010. Retrieved 2010-10-22.
- 1 2 Laybourn, Ian (30 January 2015). "Super League club-by-club guide". Sporting Life. Retrieved 17 June 2015.
- ↑ "Original St Helens R.L.F.C.Supporters Club". www.originalsaintssupportersclub.co.uk. 2 March 2011. Retrieved 2011-03-02.
- ↑ "Imperial Exiles". Imperial Exiles. 2 March 2011. Retrieved 2011-03-02.
- ↑ "Is This Saints' Most Travelled fan?". saintsrlfc.com. 14 July 2009. Retrieved 2010-11-21.
- ↑ "Thanks From Katz...". saintsrlfc.com. 23 July 2009. Retrieved 2010-11-21.
- ↑ "RedVee.Net - The N°1 Independent Saints Website - Sponsored By Hattons Solicitors". www.redvee.net. 25 March 2014. Retrieved 2014-03-25.
- ↑ "1996 Crowd Average". redvee.net. 19 December 2010. Retrieved 19 December 2010.
- ↑ "1997 Crowd Average". redvee.net. 19 December 2010. Retrieved 19 December 2010.
- ↑ "1998 Crowd Average". redvee.net. 19 December 2010. Retrieved 19 December 2010.
- ↑ "1999 Crowd Average". redvee.net. 19 December 2010. Retrieved 19 December 2010.
- ↑ "2000 Crowd Average". redvee.net. 19 December 2010. Retrieved 19 December 2010.
- ↑ "2001 Crowd Average". redvee.net. 19 December 2010. Retrieved 19 December 2010.
- ↑ "2002 Crowd Average". redvee.net. 19 December 2010. Retrieved 19 December 2010.
- ↑ "2003 Crowd Average". redvee.net. 19 December 2010. Retrieved 19 December 2010.
- ↑ "2004 Crowd Average". redvee.net. 19 December 2010. Retrieved 19 December 2010.
- ↑ "2005 Crowd Average". redvee.net. 19 December 2010. Retrieved 19 December 2010.
- ↑ "2006 Crowd Average". redvee.net. 19 December 2010. Retrieved 19 December 2010.
- ↑ "2007 Crowd Average". redvee.net. 19 December 2010. Retrieved 19 December 2010.
- ↑ "2008 Crowd Average". redvee.net. 19 December 2010. Retrieved 19 December 2010.
- ↑ "2009 Crowd Average". redvee.net. 19 December 2010. Retrieved 19 December 2010.
- ↑ "2010 Crowd Average". redvee.net. 19 December 2010. Retrieved 19 December 2010.
- ↑ "2011 Crowd Average". redvee.net. Retrieved 17 June 2015.
- ↑ "2012 Crowd Average". redvee.net. Retrieved 17 June 2015.
- ↑ "2013 Crowd Average". redvee.net. Retrieved 17 June 2015.
- ↑ "Johnny Vegas turns out for Saints". bbc.co.uk. 3 February 2005. Retrieved 2010-11-01.
- ↑ "Ricky Hatton–The Voice of Hattons TV Advert". bbc.co.uk. 1 November 2010. Retrieved 2010-11-01.
- ↑ "Unbeaten St Helens boxer Craig Lyon joins Ricky Hatton stable". St Helens Star. 3 December 2009. Retrieved 2010-11-09.
- ↑ "Everton star Tim Cahill shoots commercial at Stobart Stadium". St Helens Star. 17 December 2009. Retrieved 2010-11-12.
- ↑ "Grand Slam Chizzy". St Helens Star. 12 November 2010. Retrieved 2010-11-12.
- ↑ "Rob Broughton gets UFC career of to flying start". St Helens Star. 4 November 2010. Retrieved 2010-11-12.
- ↑ "Classy Murray overcomes sledging and spoiling tactics to win Commonwealth title". St Helens Star. 22 July 2010. Retrieved 2010-11-12.
- ↑ "St Helens-born businessman lands top FA job". St Helens Star. 24 December 2010. Retrieved 2010-12-31.
- ↑ "A fame of two halves for Ricky". Wales Online. 26 September 2005. Retrieved 2010-11-09.
- 1 2 Saints Heritage Society, see General Pages and Shirt Tales. Retrieved 2010-10-20.
- ↑ "Saints Agree Sportswear Partnership With ISC". saintsrlfc.com. 9 August 2010. Retrieved 2010-10-23.
- ↑ "Record Pre-Orders For New Home Shirt". saintsrlfc.com. 25 November 2010. Retrieved 2010-11-26.
- ↑ "There's no identity crisis say Saints". St Helens Star. 18 November 2010. Retrieved 2010-12-01.
- ↑ "St Bernard Steps Up To The Challenge". saintsrlfc.com. 6 May 2009. Retrieved 2010-07-26.
- ↑ "5 Clubs Issued With Licensing Letters". superleague.co.uk. 22 July 2009. Retrieved 2009-08-07.
- ↑ "St Helens RLFC New Stadium". sthelensstadium.com. 15 July 2009. Retrieved 2009-07-14.
- ↑ "Work Begins On Bridge". saintsrlfc.com. 9 August 2010. Retrieved 2010-08-09.
- ↑ "Saints shifting to Widnes". skysports.com. 18 July 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-18.
- ↑ "Greatest Saints Line Up Revealed". saintsrlfc.com. 2 September 2010. Retrieved 2010-09-03.
- ↑ "Paul Wellens Website". paulwellens.co.uk. 31 July 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-31.
- ↑ "St Helens Coaching and Support Staff". saintsrlfc.com. 15 January 2010. Retrieved 2010-01-15.
- ↑ "Contact Us!". saintsrlfc.com. 16 December 2010. Retrieved 2010-12-16.
- 1 2 3 4 "St Helens 112-0 Carlisle". Saints Heritage Society. 14 September 1986. Retrieved 2010-08-12.
- ↑ "St Helens 36-15 Carlisle". Saints Heritage Society. 5 May 1932. Retrieved 2010-08-12.
- ↑ "St Helens 48-5 Castleford". Saints Heritage Society. 3 March 1956. Retrieved 2010-08-15.
- ↑ "St Helens 56-5 Liverpool City". Saints Heritage Society. 20 August 1956. Retrieved 2010-08-15.
- ↑ "St Helens 52-5 Wakefield". Saints Heritage Society. 21 December 1957. Retrieved 2010-08-15.
- ↑ "St Helens 37-5 Blackpool". Saints Heritage Society. 23 April 1962. Retrieved 2010-08-15.
- ↑ "St Helens 58-5 Maryport". Saints Heritage Society. 1 September 1969. Retrieved 2010-08-15.
- ↑ "St Helens 64-2 Hull". Saints Heritage Society. 17 February 1988. Retrieved 2010-08-15.
- 1 2 "Tom van Vollenhoven Profile". Saints Heritage Society. 15 August 2010. Retrieved 2010-08-15.
- 1 2 3 4 5 "Kel Coslett Profile". Saints Heritage Society. 15 August 2010. Retrieved 2010-08-15.
- ↑ "Harry Pinner Profile". Saints Heritage Society. 15 August 2010. Retrieved 2010-08-15.
- 1 2 "St Helens 6-78 Warrington". Saints Heritage Society. 12 April 1909. Retrieved 2010-08-15.
- ↑ "St Helens 15-8 Wigan". Saints Heritage Society. 26 December 1949. Retrieved 2010-08-15.
- ↑ "St Helens 66-14 Warrington". Saints Heritage Society. 26 August 1996. Retrieved 2010-08-15.
- ↑ "St Helens 0-5 Bradford". Saints Heritage Society. 19 February 1949. Retrieved 2010-08-15.
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